A Special Two Days
On autumn nights, the area around Kumamoto Castle is enveloped in a fantastical light for two special days. It is “Kumamoto Kurashibito Matsuri Mizuakari”, a festival of prayer and hope created by the hands of citizens. The lights of 54,000 candles gently illuminate the historical cityscape, warmly lighting the hearts of visitors.
Lighting Up Kumamoto’s Charm with Citizen Power
Mizuakari, which began in 2004, is a regionally-circulated festival created mainly by citizens. With Kumamoto Castle and its surroundings as the stage, the production of lights utilizing local resources such as bamboo, water, and candles fantastically colors the autumn nights. This festival is not merely a tourist event; it aims to share “the joy and sorrow of living here” and generate vitality in Kumamoto.
Highlights: A Space of Light Where History and Prayer Intersect
At Hanabata Park, one of the main venues, a dedication ceremony is held using Japanese wax candles, a symbol of the restoration of the Kumamoto Domain. Water is poured into bamboo lanterns, and candles are lit. Each one is filled with the wishes of the citizens. The way the sacred fire taken from the crater of Mt. Aso is passed on to the lights of the bamboo lanterns is truly a sacred ritual. The sight of countless lights flickering against the backdrop of Kumamoto Castle gives visitors a sense of wonder and healing.
Environmental Consideration: The Shape of a Sustainable Festival
Mizuakari is also thorough in its consideration for the environment. The bamboo used is harvested to prevent damage to bamboo forests. After the festival, it is reused for bamboo compost and bamboo charcoal. Not only the beauty of the lights, but also the consideration for the environment is one of the attractions of this festival.
Basic Information
Item Content
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Name | Kumamoto Kurashibito Matsuri Mizuakari |
| Location | Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture |
| Access | 20 minutes by tram from JR Kumamoto Station |
| Dates | Saturday and Sunday of the second week of October |
| Lighting Hours | From 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM on the first day, 9:00 PM on the second day |
| Fee | Free |
| Official Website | http://mizuakari.net |
Summary
Kumamoto Kurashibito Matsuri Mizuakari is a warm and fantastical autumn festival filled with the thoughts of its citizens. The beautiful sight woven by the candlelight heals the hearts of visitors and allows them to rediscover the charm of Kumamoto. By all means, please take a stroll around Kumamoto Castle on a long autumn night and experience the atmosphere of this special festival.
Call to Readers
Mizuakari, where you can feel the warmth of the people of Kumamoto. Please visit with your loved ones and create lasting memories.